Prepare to grab some tissues as you watch an incredibly uplifting video where educators express to each student just how significant they are. A group of teachers from Oak Grove High School in Kansas City, Missouri, initiated a “Positivity Project” aimed at creating a memorable and affirmative moment for their students. In this heartwarming clip, teachers take a moment to share how much each student inspires them to come to school.
Words of Inspiration
“I wanted you to know that you motivate me to be a better educator, and you make me excited to come to school,” says teacher Lisa Turner as she addresses her student at the beginning of the video. Turner, who oversees the academy program for at-risk sophomores and juniors, encouraged her fellow teachers to take time to acknowledge the importance and value of each student. “Last spring, we had our students write letters of appreciation to us, and I thought, why not turn the tables?” Turner explained to a local news outlet. “We genuinely care, but often they don’t realize that.”
Initial Apprehension
Initially, the students were apprehensive, thinking they were in trouble when they were called out of class. “They all believed they had done something wrong,” Turner recalled. “We had to reassure them that they were simply there to hear something positive.” It’s common for student-teacher interactions to be centered around discipline, which can lead students to feel they’re only acknowledged for misbehavior. This time, however, students were greeted with words of affirmation and appreciation, leaving many visibly moved.
A Positive Response
The Positivity Project took approximately three weeks, but the response from students and faculty was overwhelmingly positive. “Afterwards, many teachers shared how fulfilling the experience was,” Turner noted. “Some even approached me days later, saying they were having a tough day and wanted to create another video.” It’s easy to see why this initiative has resonated with so many viewers, as the video has garnered nearly 200,000 shares on social media.
Encouraging Connections
“We hope this encourages other educators to foster meaningful connections with their students,” Turner said. “The key takeaway is to maintain a positive outlook—smile, and let others know they’re doing a great job.”
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Conclusion
In summary, the “Positivity Project” at Oak Grove High School showcases the profound impact that simple acts of appreciation can have on students. It serves as a reminder of the importance of positive reinforcement in education, encouraging educators everywhere to create uplifting experiences for their students.